Solid Dielectric Breakdown Techniques

Abstract

Successful measurement of the breakdown strength of solid insulating materials is greatly dependent on the type of electrodes used. It was found, in studying materials over the frequency range from 60 cps to 100-megacycles/sec, that it was usually necessary to imbed the high voltage electrode.A method is described that has proved widely applicable and free from compromising effects. Solder may be sprayed from a gun into a properly shaped cavity to form a perfectly imbedded electrode. Specimens that have been conditioned at high humidity may be equipped with such sprayed electrodes within a few minutes after removal from exposure. Tests were made over a temperature range from -55~ to 125~ The procedure, with minor variations, has been applied successfully to ceramic, laminated thermosetting, molded thermosetting, and rigid thermoplastic materials.